Socceroo Chipperfield quits professional sport

Adam Cooper

Former Socceroo Scott Chipperfield has announced his retirement from professional football, scuttling hopes he might have joined new A-League club Western Sydney Wanderers.

Chipperfield, 36, had indicated recently he planned to return from Switzerland to play with his junior club in Tarrawanna, near Wollongong, and would consider becoming the latest big name to play in Australia's domestic competition.

But he said on Twitter last night he planned to stay in Europe with his family and would now devote his energy to watching his sons play and completing his coaching licences. Chipperfield also has stakes in several racehorses.

"I have decided to retire from pro football & will sign with an amateur team in Basel," Chipperfield said.

"Would have loved to have played for West Syd in there (sic) debut season but due to family reasons I will stay.

"Been lucky to have had a long & successful career. Look forward to a new challenge."

Chipperfield played 68 times for Australia, including the 2006 and 2010 World Cup campaigns, and has played for FC Basel in the Swiss top flight since 2001.